Paying attention to changes in the way you feel can greatly reduce the risk of developing illness. This cold, cold weather brings with it a lot of runny noses and sneezing, which leads to the passing of more and more germs. Fatigue, stiff neck, nasal congestion, sore or scratchy throat, headaches, fever, chills, sore eyes, or body aches are some subtle–and not so subtle–signs that indicate a foreign invader has entered your system.
Steps as simple as hydration and rest are important. Chinese herbal formulas such as Gan Mao Ling and Yin Qiao San should always be stocked in your medical cabinet, so that you can grab them just when you realize something is brewing. Other common over-the-counter immune boosting herbs include echinacea, Emergen-C, Wellness Formula, grapefruit seed extract, colloidal silver, Oscillococcinum®, Vitamin C, and Airborne, just to name a few. However you choose to boost your immune system, paying attention to changes in how you feel is key to your initial defenses. Catch it early, and you have a better chance at defeating it. Acupuncture and even massage also have positive effects on your immune system.
Take care of your body, listen to the cues it gives you, and stay well.
Contributor:
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.